The assembly elections 2024 have highlighted a significant issue: family connections and political favoritism, with several major parties nominating candidates tied by blood or marriage to established leaders. As multiple parties prioritize family legacies over longstanding party loyalty, questions are being raised about fairness, party morale, and the integrity of democratic values.
Political insiders and the public alike have noted that numerous new candidates owe their nominations more to familial influence than to their individual contributions. In a striking trend, candidates with close ties to senior leaders now find themselves vying for assembly seats, sparking concerns over the sidelining of dedicated party workers who have labored in the field for years.
Among these candidates, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has fielded Kalpana Soren from Gandey, a candidate with by-election success already in her favor. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) nominated Meera Munda, wife of former Chief Minister Arjun Munda, for Potka, and Geeta Koda, wife of ex-Chief Minister Madhu Koda, for Singhbhum. Observers suggest that these nominations may capitalize on name recognition and family reputation rather than merit or experience.
A notable phenomenon in these elections is the rise of “political wives” — spouses of prominent leaders who are making their entry into politics largely due to family connections. This includes JMM’s Sabita Mahto, widow of former Deputy Chief Minister Sudhir Mahto, who is contesting from Ichagarh; Baby Devi, widow of the late Education Minister Jagarnath Mahto, contesting from Dumri. BJP has nominated Seeta Soren, wife of Hemant Soren’s elder brother Durga Soren, from Jamtara. For many longtime party workers, these choices underscore a feeling of being sidelined in favor of family dynasties, a sentiment echoed across the state.
“ The influence of family favoritism, especially in favor of candidates new to the political arena, may come at a cost. Political observers warn that relying on familial recognition could risk the credibility of the parties in the long run, while veteran party workers feel their loyalty is being undercut.
This election season may well be remembered as one that places legacy over dedication, as parties grapple with balancing political clout with democratic ideals. For voters, the 2024 Assembly Elections are a litmus test of whether merit, commitment, and the voice of loyal party workers can still play a decisive role amid rising family influence. As the election progresses, all eyes are on whether these choices will meet the public's call for a merit-based selection of candidates or continue a trend of family-driven politics.
“ As the election season continues, the public is left to wonder whether merit, experience, and dedication will ever take precedence over lineage and status. Jharkhand’s voters and party workers alike are watching closely, hoping for an electoral process that reflects the principles of democracy rather than the sway of family legacies,” said a young voter.
